A very important Meeting for the Protection of Minors in the Church has just concluded at the Vatican. Pope Francis called for this meeting because he recognized that the Church needs to be serious about protecting minors if we are to have any hope of re-establishing the credibility among God's people that we once had. It is important that we learn to listen attentively to those who present cases of children and adolescents who have been harmed, and that we do all in our power to provide for their care so that the wounds that have been inflicted can heal.
Today's gospel passage (Mk 9:14-29) provides an example of a child who has been possessed by a mute spirit (Mk 9:17). Jesus takes the time to listen to the child's father who pleads for his son and is compassionate. This is the first step in any such situation where healing is required. Eventually, the father brings his son to Jesus so that he can see for himself the extent of the damage that has been done, and Jesus - who has established a relationship of trust with the boy's father - reassures him that it is possible for his son to be healed (Mk 9:20-24). Finally, Jesus prayed in the presence of the possessed child and commanded the spirit to come out (Mk 9:25).
Every person who is entrusted with a level of leadership in the Church must learn to do as Jesus did - to welcome those who plead for their children, to listen attentively as they tell their stories, to establish relationships of trust and then to do all in our power to bring about the healing that is needed. This is delicate but necessary work if we are to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, helping our brothers and sisters to overcome the scourge that has possessed them so that they can be set free.
Have a great day.
No comments:
Post a Comment